Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4 Days / 3 Nights – Classic Trekking in Cusco – Paddys Travel – Travel Agency in Cusco

After an early breakfast, we will begin the most physically demanding day of the 4-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

The route ascends through the Yuncachimpa Valley toward Llulluchapampa, located at approximately 3,850 meters. The vegetation gradually changes as we enter the high-Andean environment.

From Llulluchapampa, we will continue toward Warmiwañusca Pass, also known as Dead Woman’s Pass. At approximately 4,200 meters above sea level, this is the highest point of the Classic Inca Trail.

Upon reaching the summit, you will be rewarded with spectacular panoramic views of the Andes and nearby snow-capped mountains. We will take time to rest, take photographs and appreciate the landscape before beginning the descent.

The trail continues toward the Pacaymayu Valley, where lunch will be served. After recovering our energy, we will ascend toward the second high pass near Runkurakay.

Along this section, you may visit archaeological structures and enjoy impressive views as the environment begins to transition toward the cloud forest.

We will finish the day at the Chaquicocha campsite, surrounded by mountains and lush vegetation.

Hiking time: Approximately 7 to 9 hours
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Accommodation: Campsite

The third day is considered one of the most beautiful sections of the Inca Trail because of its extraordinary combination of archaeological sites, mountain views and cloud-forest scenery.

After breakfast, we will continue along original stone pathways through increasingly lush vegetation. The route includes ancient stairways, tunnels and panoramic viewpoints overlooking the surrounding valleys.

We will visit Phuyupatamarca, known as the “City Above the Clouds.” Located at approximately 3,600 meters above sea level, this archaeological complex features ceremonial fountains, terraces and impressive stone structures.

Your guide will explain the possible functions of the site and its strategic position along the Inca Trail.

We will then begin a long descent through the cloud forest toward Wiñay Wayna. Along the route, you will notice orchids, ferns, moss-covered trees and a wide variety of birdlife.

Wiñay Wayna is one of the most remarkable archaeological complexes on the trail. Its name means “Forever Young” in Quechua, and the site features agricultural terraces, ceremonial fountains and residential structures built into the mountainside.

Our final campsite will be located near Wiñay Wayna, allowing us to rest before the early journey to Machu Picchu.

Hiking time: Approximately 5 to 7 hours
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Accommodation: Campsite

The final day begins very early, at approximately 4:00 a.m. After breakfast, we will prepare our equipment and walk toward the final checkpoint of the Inca Trail.

Once access is authorized, we will continue along the ancient pathway toward Inti Punku, the famous Sun Gate.

Arrival at the Sun Gate

After approximately two hours of hiking, we will reach Inti Punku at around 2,780 meters above sea level.

From this historic entrance, you will enjoy your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu surrounded by mountains and cloud forest. Weather permitting, the morning light creates one of the most memorable scenes of the entire trek.

We will then descend toward the archaeological complex, stopping at designated viewpoints for photographs.

Guided Tour of Machu Picchu

Upon entering Machu Picchu, your professional guide will lead you through the sectors permitted by your assigned visitor circuit.

During the guided tour, you will learn about the citadel’s history, architecture, agricultural terraces, ceremonial spaces, water channels and remarkable stone construction.

Access to specific temples and structures depends on the official circuit assigned to your entrance ticket and current sanctuary regulations.

Aguas Calientes and Return to Cusco

After completing the Machu Picchu visit, we will take the bus down to Aguas Calientes.

You will have free time to purchase lunch, explore the town or visit local shops before boarding the scheduled Expedition train to Ollantaytambo.

Upon arrival at the train station, tourist transportation will be waiting to take you back to Cusco.

Hiking time: Approximately 2 hours before reaching Machu Picchu
Meals included: Breakfast